How to Watch Carlton v Richmond AFL Round 1: Full TV and Radio Guide with Star Commentators

The highly anticipated AFL Round 1 clash between Carlton and Richmond kicks off the 2026 season at the iconic MCG on Thursday, 12 March, with a 7:30pm AEDT start (8:30am UK time). Fans in the UK and around the world craving Australian Rules Football action will find a wealth of broadcast options across radio, TV, and streaming platforms, featuring some of the sport's most revered voices. While no traditional British channels like BBC, Sky Sports, ITV, or TNT Sports are carrying the match, global audiences can tune into Australian feeds via streaming services or apps for comprehensive coverage[4][7].

Carlton enters this traditional rivalry match looking to rebound from a tough loss to Sydney, with coach Michael Voss bringing back trio Lachie Cowan, Matthew Carroll, and Hudson O’Keeffe to bolster the Blues' lineup against the Tigers[1][3]. Richmond has locked in its Round 1 team, setting the stage for an explosive opener at the MCG, where public gates open at 5:30pm[2][4]. For UK viewers, the early morning kick-off makes it perfect for breakfast viewing on digital platforms.

Leading the broadcast charge on TV is the powerhouse duo of Channel 7+ and ABC Sport, alongside premium options like BINGE, Fox Footy, and Kayo Sports. On BINGE / Fox Footy / Kayo Sports, presenter Sarah Jones hosts, with main commentators Mark Howard and Matt Hill calling the action. Howard, a veteran broadcaster with decades in AFL media, teams up with co-commentators David King—a four-time premiership player with North Melbourne and now a sharp analyst—and Jack Riewoldt, Richmond's record goal-kicker and 2023 premiership coach. Pundits Jason Dunstall (Hawthorn legend with over 1,000 goals) and Leigh Montagna (St Kilda champion) provide expert insights, while reporters Brad Johnson, Eddie Betts, and Jon Ralph deliver on-ground updates[1].

ABC Sport offers free-to-air access with main commentators Corbin Middlemas and Matt Clinch, joined by co-commentators Brett Deledio (ex-Richmond star) and Marc Murphy (Carlton icon with 333 games). Reporter Ben Cameron rounds out the team, making it an accessible choice for international fans via streaming.

Radio enthusiasts have even more options. 3AW (Melbourne) and FiveAA (Adelaide) feature Anthony Hudson and Bruce Eva as main callers, with co-commentators Jimmy Bartel—2007 Geelong premiership hero and Brownlow medallist—and Matthew Richardson, Richmond's Hall of Famer. Pundit Cal Twomey, renowned draft expert, and reporter Jacqui Reed add depth. Over in Perth on 6PR, Adam Papalia and Mark Readings lead, with Brad Hardie (West Coast pioneer), David Mundy (Fremantle great), and reporter Eddie Summerfield.

AFL Nation / SEN1116 (Melbourne) boasts Gerard Whateley—one of Australia's top sports callers with a storied career across cricket and footy—and Dwayne Russell, alongside coaches Adam Simpson (West Coast) and Ken Hinkley (Port Adelaide). Blues Radio - AFL Nation has Andy Maher calling with ex-Blues Anthony Koutoufides, Ang Christou, and Sam Edmund. LiSTNR / Triple M features Nathan Brown and Jack Heverin, with Isaac Smith, Kate McCarthy, reporter Ruby Schleicher, and statistician Ash Chua. The SEN App combines Whateley, Russell, Maher, and more for ultimate flexibility.

This match promises drama, with Carlton's returns injecting pace and Richmond aiming to upset. UK and global fans can stream via Kayo Sports or AFL apps, often with world feeds available. For more on the AFL competition, visit the official site. Whether you're a die-hard Blues or Tigers supporter, these star-studded teams ensure world-class commentary to elevate the Round 1 thriller.

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Article generated: 12 March 2026, 08:30 GMT